G8 talks on economy not controversial: Merkel

Summit talks between G8 leaders reached "a lot of mutual understanding" on how to sustain the global economy in summit talks here, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Friday.

"I have made it clear that we need sustainable growth and that growth and intelligent austerity measures don't have to be contradictions," Merkel told journalists.

"The discussion was not controversial, there was a lot of mutual understanding."

The United States has expressed concern over European moves, led by Germany, to rein in spending in face of ballooning deficits. Instead, Washington has argued for continued measures to spur economic growth.

But Merkel said: "The US didn't try to emphasize the differences. We all stated that we feel responsible for modern and sustainable growth. We have made our point clear that Germany intends to continue its way."